Suma Karandikar
MA, LCPC, PMH-C (SHE/HER/HERS)
Known for her warm and compassionate presence, Suma prides herself in creating a safe and encouraging space for individuals and couples to do the work that lends to lasting positive change.
About Suma
Suma (she/her/hers) proudly serves as the Owner of Thrive Postpartum, Couples and Family, previously the Postpartum Wellness Center that was founded in October 2013. She is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with 20+ years of experience working with adults, couples and families and utilizes variety of therapeutic models including Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness Based Therapy.
Education
Suma received her Master’s in Counseling from Loyola University Chicago and her Bachelor's in Psychology at the University of Iowa.
Personal Passions
In her free time, Suma enjoys family time, playing with her doodles, yoga and traveling. She has been married for more than 25 years and has three children.
Certifications and Appointments
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Over a three-year program, Drs. John and Julie Gottman have personally trained Suma in what the industry largely recognizes as the highest quality couples therapy. Using the Gottman Method, Suma works to help her clients leverage action-oriented techniques that are based on cutting edge scientific research into what makes relationships work. Suma has also completed the advanced Gottman course: Treating Affairs and Trauma.
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Suma has undergone specialized training in Discernment Counseling, a focused and short-term therapy designed for couples who are unsure about the future of their relationship. Through this training, Suma has gained a deep understanding of how to help couples navigate the difficult decision of whether to stay together or separate. By providing a neutral space for both partners, Suma empowers them to explore their feelings, clarify their goals, and make a well-informed decision about their future. This training complements her extensive background in couples therapy and enables her to offer a unique, evidence-based approach for those facing relationship uncertainty
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Suma has undergone specialized training and certification in the field of premarital counseling through the Prepare and Enrich program. She possess expertise in utilizing the Prepare and Enrich assessment tools and interventions to guide couples in building strong foundations for their marriages.
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Suma has extensive post-graduate training in the assessment and treatment of Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs). In additional to the Postpartum Support International training, Suma has gone on to complete Karen Kleiman's landmark postgraduate clinical training in PMADs. Suma is a member of Postpartum Support International.
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The Compassionate Bereavement Care Certification® is an intensive four day training program through The MISS Foundation. The Miss Foundation is an international nonprofit group which aids parents whose children die. Related, Suma also has experience in grief and loss work specific to miscarriage, stillbirth and infant loss and has completed The Perinatal Loss - A Framework for Healing certificate course.
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Suma participated in the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction program (MBSR) based on Dr. Kabat-Zinn's U-Mass Medical Center model. This program imparts mindfulness skills through body awareness exercises, sitting and walking meditation, and gentle hatha yoga. Suma integrates mindfulness techniques to assist individuals in their healing journey.
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Suma feels passionate about the benefits of EMDR.
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Suma formerly served on the Board of Directors as the Chair of Education and Training for Postpartum Support International, a leading organization that researches and advocates for women’s mental health and therapeutic intervention. Suma continues to be a member of Postpartum Support International.
"What awaits you when you opt for Suma, a Certified Gottman Therapist?"
Choosing Suma means partnering with a therapist who’s not only highly trained, but deeply invested in your well-being. Her approach is grounded, evidence-based, and always guided by compassion.
Proven Expertise
Suma’s Gottman certification reflects advanced training in one of the most respected approaches to couples therapy. Her track record demonstrates consistent success in helping couples strengthen connection, repair trust, and build resilience.
Customized, Action-Oriented Support
Using structured assessments and interventions from the Gottman Method, Suma tailors therapy to meet the unique needs of each couple. Her approach ensures focused, effective work that leads to real progress.
Efficient & Strengths-Based
Therapy with Suma emphasizes what’s going well in your relationship—not just what’s broken. Her sessions are designed to be both efficient and empowering, helping couples shift into new patterns faster.
Comprehensive Relationship Insight
Tools like the Gottman Relationship Checkup offer deep insight into relationship dynamics, giving Suma the information needed to guide your work with clarity and intention.
Wholehearted Dedication
Clients often describe Suma as someone who truly goes the extra mile. Her mix of expertise, empathy, flexibility, and commitment creates a powerful foundation for growth and healing.
Publications & Other Contributions
As a certified Gottman therapist and an expert in perinatal mental health, Suma, alongside other local providers, offers insights and strategies to assist individuals in navigating the transformative journey to parenthood with their partner.